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September, October and November are always fascinating and inspiring times for anyone interested in the history of the Georgian sailing era and Lord Nelson in particular. Three anniversaries come one after the other. We celebrate Nelson’s birthday on 29 September 1758, commemorate his Immortal Memory and that of those who fell with him at the Battle of Trafalgar on 21 October 1805 and celebrate the journey of Lieutenant John Richards Lapenotière with the news of the victory and Nelson’s death, which reached the Admiralty on 6 November 1805.
Heroes are born before they are made, so even though his parents preferred to call him Horace they could not have guessed that his Christian name, Horatio, would ultimately fit perfectly England’s finest hero. There are few, if any, British historical characters from 200 or more years ago who continue to have such an enduring, pervasive and iconic impact. This longevity and durability is based on the worthiness of his qualities and in particular the combination of his humanity and persevering spirit. Sir Isaac Heard captured it during Nelson’s funeral service when unscripted he added, ‘and the Hero who in the moment of Victory fell covered with Immortal glory’ to the long list of Nelson’s titles.
